Press Release

PSC Approves Agreement Reached In Lakeland Heights Water Rate Case

JEFFERSON CITY---The Missouri Public Service Commission has approved an agreement which authorizes Lakeland Heights Water Company, Inc. to increase annual water operating revenues by approximately $5,842. The rate increase, designed to recover the Company’s cost of service, is anticipated to be in place for service on and after December 14, 2012.

When the company filed its rate request with the Public Service Commission on January 31, 2012, it sought to increase annual water operating revenues by approximately $3,960.

Under the small company rate case process, the PSC staff audits the books and records of the company. After the audit, the PSC staff, the company and the Office of the Public Counsel met to discuss the results. The Commission also held local public hearings in Dexter and Poplar Bluff to receive customer comment on the rate request.

Through continued discussions between the PSC staff, Lakeland Heights Water Company, Inc. and the Office of the Public Counsel, all parties were able to reach an agreement which was then filed for Commission consideration. The Office of the Public Counsel is a separate state agency which represents the general public in cases before the PSC.

The current monthly water bill for a residential customer using 3,200 gallons of water a month is $17.64. Under the agreement approved, that same customer will pay $22.26 a month for 3,200 gallons of water.

Lakeland Heights Water Company, Inc. serves approximately 105 water customers in Butler and Wayne counties near Wappapello, Missouri.